DUNNS CREEK STATE PARK
Located south of a sharp bend in the St. Johns River, this is one of the newest additions to the state park system. The park's natural communities include sandhills, covered with longleaf pines and wiregrass, and sand pine scrub. These communities protect several endangered and threatened species, such as the gopher tortoise, as well as a variety of other native animals. A picnic and hiking area is located on U.S. 17, north of Pomona Park. The mile-and-a-half hiking and bicycling trail takes visitors to the pristine waters of Blue Pond. Located 13 miles south of Palatka on U.S. 17 between Pomona Park and Satsuma.
NATURE OF THE AREA
Excellent wildlife viewing is available along the multi-use trails.Nature lovers and photographers will love the distinct natural communities of the trail system; including sandhills, mesic flatwoods, baygall and seepage slope. These are just only four of the 23 natural communities found within the park. These natural communities provide an excellent viewing experience of the different wildlife that inhabits these areas. The diverse habitats of the park provide opportunities for nature study and wildlife observation.While walking any of these trails you will have the opportunity to see such wildlife as Sand Hill Crane, southeastern kestrel, hawks, fox, and various water and wading birds. Early morning and right before sunset are typically the best times for viewing White-tail deer. During the spring and fall, neo-tropical birds and hawks can be seen on their migration.Please stay on designated trails and hike responsibly. The park closes at sundown and you must exit the park at that time, so please plan your trip accordingly.
HISTORY OF THE AREA
Native Americans used this site extensively, as evidenced by a fairly extensive shell mound in the location. During the 1920?s, there was a steamboat stop that provided wood and water to the ships loaded with citrus and it was used also as a post office for the towns of Pomona and Cisco. The property has experienced turpentining, logging, cattle ranching, and farming within the last century.
PICNICKING
A small picnic area with a waterless composting toilet is located at the Blue Pond parking and picnic area. A picnic shelter, picnic tables, grill, and informational kiosk are also located in this area. The trailhead has a stabilized parking area to accommodate about 10 vehicles.
BICYCLING
Enjoy a day?s ride thru four miles of distinct natural communities; including sandhills, mesic flatwoods, baygall and seepage slope. There are 4 marked trails within Dunns Creek State Park. All trails start on the Yellow trail. The trail head is located at the Blue pond picnic area. Park trails vary in length.Because these are multi-use trails, be prepared to meet the occasional hiker, horseback rider, or park vehicle. Please stay on designated trails, ride responsibly, and respect the park and wildlife.The park closes at sundown and you must exit the park at that time, so please plan your ride accordingly.Please note that portions of the trail may be strenuous. Due to dry conditions, sandy roads and trails can sometimes be difficult to traverse.
TRAILS
Take as short or as long of a hike as you wish, enjoying the wilderness and wildlife on about 4 miles of hiking trails. There are 4 marked trails within Dunns Creek State Park. All trails start on the Yellow trail. The trail head is located at the Blue pond picnic area. These trails vary in length from a short 10-minute walk to a full 2-hour hike that we recommend for the experienced hiker. The multi use trails wind four miles through four distinct natural communities; including sandhills, mesic flatwoods, baygall and seepage slope. While walking any of these trails you will have the opportunity to see such wildlife as Sand Hill Crane, southeastern kestrel, hawks, fox, deer and various water and wading birds. Please respect the park and wildlife.Please stay on designated trails and hike responsibly. The park closes at sundown and you must exit the park at that time, so please plan your hike accordingly.
PETS
Pets are allowed in Dunns Creek State Park and on the multi-use trail system. They must be kept on a six-foot, hand held leash and well behaved at all times. Pets may not be left unattended at any time. Please pick up after your pet.
